To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what discussions he (a) has had and (b) plans to have with the devolved administrations on areas of devolved competence in the European Union (Withdrawal) Bill.

We have been clear from the start that the devolved administrations should be fully engaged in our preparations to leave the EU. Close and constructive working between the UK Government and devolved administrations in all areas affected by EU exit will be required, including those where negotiations intersect with policies areas which are devolved.

The FirstSecretary of State has written to the First Minister of Wales and the Deputy First Minister of Scotland, whilst senior officials have written to the interim Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, to instigate discussions on where future common approaches are needed. Subsequently, the First Secretary of State has also spoken to the First Minister of Wales and the Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe. He will be speaking to the Deputy First Minister for Scotland imminently.

Over the summer it is our intention that further Ministerial and official meetings will take place. They will discuss where lasting common approaches are needed and where a common approach is not required. As a result of this process the Government expects there will be a significant increase in the decision-making power of each devolved administration.